It's been a long time since we had a Tribes game, but the public will finally be able to get their hands on the latest entry at this year's QuakeCon.

The Tribes series is very popular amongst PC multiplayer enthusiasts of a certain age, but it's been some time since we've seen a new entry in the series. Developer Hi-Rez Studios, best known for newly free to play shooter-MMO Global Agenda, has announced that new game Tribes: Ascend will be making an appearance at this year's QuakeCon. Not only that, but the game will be playable by the public for the first time.

Tribes: Ascend features the franchise's distinctive gameplay, including jetpack-enabled combat, skiing and vehicles. Success in battles depend on teamwork and strategy as much as an itchy trigger finger.

The best part, though? It's free. Tribes: Ascend has been designed from the ground-up by Hi-Rez Studios as what they call a "AAA free to play title" -- presumably considering it on a similar level to Ubisoft's upcoming and impressive-looking Ghost Recon Online along with Perfect World's Blacklight: Retribution.

"QuakeCon has been called the Woodstock of gaming and we're thrilled to introduce Tribes: Ascend at this show," said Todd Harris, COO of Hi-Rez Studios. "QuakeCon has always delivered exceptional, competitive multiplayer gaming for free; and that's our mission with Tribes: Ascend."

QuakeCon taks place between August 4 and 7 in Dallas, Texas. Attendees will have the opportunity to win a key to the Tribes: Ascend Closed Beta when it launches. Book your tickets here.